Forklift Training - General

Overview
Operators must be trained and evaluated Only drive the types of trucks on which you have been trained

1a

Forklift rules
Dont stand or pass under raised forks Only handle stable loads within trucks rated capacity

2a

Forklift rules
Use a safety platform to lift people Only use approved trucks in hazardous locations Look in direction of travel
2b

Forklift rules
Dont drive up to anyone in front of a fixed object Allow no riders Keep arms, legs in truck

2c

Forklift rules
Keep the load close to the ground Obey speed limits

2d

Forklift rules
Slow down, sound horn at intersections Maintain safe following distances, clearance No stunt driving, horseplay
2e

Forklift rules
Secure truck trailers before entering Lower forks, neutralize controls, shut off engine, and set brakes when truck is unattended
2f

Training geared for the workplace

Truck-related Trucktopics Site-specific Siteinformation

3a

TruckTruck-related topics
Operating instructions, warnings Forklifts vs. autos Truck controls

4a

TruckTruck-related topics
Engine, motor operation Steering, maneuverability Visibility

4b

TruckTruck-related topics
Fork, attachment use limitations Vehicle capacity, stability Inspection, maintenance
4c

TruckTruck-related topics
Refueling, recharging Operating limitations Other instructions

4d

WorkplaceWorkplace-related topics
Surface conditions, ramps, slopes Composition of loads

5a

WorkplaceWorkplace-related topics
Pedestrian traffic Narrow aisles Hazardous locations Ventilation
5b

Forklifts vs. automobiles

Rear-wheel steering Rear Different centers of gravity Different controls Heavy loads

6a

Controls and instrumentation

Unintentional, mistaken operation can cause serious accidents

7a

Engine and motor operation

Gasoline, LP gas, propane, or battery

8a

Steering and maneuvering

Rear-end steering Rear No standard steering wheel Often drive in reverse

9a

Operator visibility
Loads can restrict vision Look in the direction of travel Check blind spots
10a

Forks
Additions/modifications may affect stability, safe operation Attachments can restrict/limit operation

11a

Vehicle capacity
Only handle loads within trucks rated capacity Capacity is found on nameplate

12a

Vehicle stability
Center of gravity shifts as load is raised Truck is less stable with raised load

13a

Vehicle stability
During a tipover stay with vehicle, lean away from direction of fall Dont jump down as truck tips

13b

Inspection and maintenance

Follow procedures, schedules Pre-operation safety checks Pre-

14a

Inspection and maintenance

Damage, defects, unusual conditions Remove unsafe trucks from service

14b

Fueling/charging of batteries
Exposes workers to hazardous chemicals, electrical hazards

15a

Fueling/charging of batteries
No smoking, flames, sparks, arcs Keep tools, metallic objects away from uncovered batteries

15b

Provide operators with complete information

Operating instructions Warnings, precautions Limitations

16a

WorkplaceWorkplace-specific information
Traffic routes, pedestrians Unique hazards of the facility

17a

Retraining/reRetraining/re-evaluation
Triggered by certain events Evaluate at least every 3 years

18a